iOS 26.3 brings AirPods-like pairing to third-party devices in EU under DMA

Hacker News•Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at 6:22:21 AM

PositiveTechnology

Apple's iOS 26.3 update will introduce AirPods-like fast pairing for third-party devices in the European Union, enhancing user convenience and interoperability. This feature aims to simplify the connection process for various earbuds with iPhones, aligning with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulations.
The introduction of this feature is significant for Apple as it demonstrates compliance with EU regulations while also improving the user experience for iPhone users in the region. This move may help Apple maintain its competitive edge in the increasingly regulated tech landscape.
This development reflects a broader trend of regulatory influence on major tech companies, particularly in the EU, where interoperability and user choice are prioritized. The integration of new standards, such as proximity pairing and support for AirDrop between Android and iOS, underscores the ongoing push for a more connected and user-friendly digital ecosystem.

— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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TechRadar3 days ago

iOS 26.3 adds AirPod-style fast pairing for third-party earbuds — but there's a major catch

NeutralTechnology

Apple's upcoming iOS 26.3 update will introduce AirPod-style fast pairing for third-party earbuds, enhancing user convenience for iPhone users in EU countries. This feature aims to streamline the connection process, making it easier to pair various earbuds with Apple devices.

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via TechRadar

Engadget3 days ago

Apple's iOS 26.3 will introduce proximity pairing to third-party devices in the EU

NeutralTechnology

Apple's upcoming iOS 26.3 update will introduce proximity pairing capabilities for third-party devices within the European Union, enhancing interoperability and user convenience. This feature aims to streamline the connection process between Apple devices and compatible third-party accessories.

Read full article

via Engadget

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